Peaceful Protest Planned at Colombo Court Complex Over Prison Clothing Regulations

A peaceful protest is scheduled to be held at the Colombo Court Complex today (October 7) over reported steps taken by the Department of Prisons regarding the clothing worn by Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero.

Venerable Neethiyagama Chandima Thero said the protest would be held at 9:00 a.m. today.

“We all have a country, a nation, a religion and a culture. We are not expressing opposition to the court order. However, the decision to remove the robes of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero and bring him before the public in that manner has deeply disturbed many people,” he said.

He also called on the public, particularly young people, to participate in the protest, saying it was aimed at preventing such an incident from becoming a precedent in the future.

Former Minister and retired Rear Admiral Sarath Weerasekara also expressed concern over the reported measures, saying he was saddened by the situation as a Buddhist.

Former Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka similarly commented on the matter, stating that the Department of Prisons does not have the authority to remove the Thero’s robes.

However, Commissioner of Prisons and Prisons Media Spokesman Senaka Palletenna later clarified the regulations governing the clothing of convicted persons following various claims circulating on social media.

Palletenna said that individuals sentenced to more than three years of imprisonment are required to be produced before court wearing prison clothing issued by the Department of Prisons.

He explained that under prison regulations, a Buddhist monk serving a sentence of simple imprisonment may continue to wear robes while serving the sentence.

However, those sentenced to rigorous imprisonment are required to wear prison clothing regardless of their status or position, he said.

The Prisons spokesman further explained that when a convicted person serving a sentence of less than three years is produced before court, the prison superintendent may grant permission for the individual to wear the civilian clothing they wore before beginning their sentence.

In the case of a Buddhist monk, similar permission may be granted to appear before court wearing robes.

However, a person sentenced to more than three years in prison must be produced before court wearing clothing issued by the Department of Prisons, regardless of the person’s status, position or religious identity, Palletenna said.

He added that more than 63 religious figures are currently serving prison sentences at correctional institutions across the country and are likewise required to comply with the applicable prison clothing regulations.